Gait analysis
Gait Analysis
Gait analysis is the systematic study of animal locomotion, more specifically the study of human motion, using the eye and the brain of observers, augmented by instrumentation for measuring body movements, body mechanics, and the activity of the muscles.
Pronunciation
Gait: /ɡeɪt/ Analysis: /əˈnalɪsɪs/
Etymology
The term "gait" comes from the Old Norse word "gata" meaning road or path. "Analysis" is derived from the Greek word "analusis" which means a breaking up or a loosening.
Description
Gait analysis is used to assess, plan, and treat individuals with conditions affecting their ability to walk. It is also commonly used in sports biomechanics to help athletes run more efficiently and to identify posture-related or movement-related problems in people with injuries.
Components of Gait Analysis
Gait analysis involves the measurement of a range of locomotor parameters. These include:
- Stride length: The distance covered in one gait cycle.
- Step length: The distance covered from the heel strike of one foot to the heel strike of the opposite foot.
- Cadence: The number of steps taken per minute.
- Walking speed: The distance covered per unit of time.
- Stance phase: The portion of the gait cycle when the foot is in contact with the ground.
- Swing phase: The portion of the gait cycle when the foot is not in contact with the ground.
Applications
Gait analysis is used in various fields such as physiotherapy, orthopedics, neurology, geriatrics, and sports science. It is used to assess and treat individuals with conditions affecting their ability to walk, such as cerebral palsy, stroke, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson's disease, and arthritis.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gait analysis
- Wikipedia's article - Gait analysis
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